My name is Joanna James and our family's world was irrevocably shattered on Christmas night when a horrific hit-and-run collision tragically claimed the precious life of our beloved 14-year-old Malachi James. This senseless act, caused by a reckless driver fleeing from another incident, has left a gaping hole in our hearts and forever changed our lives.
Malachi was my nephew and godson, a vibrant and sweet young man who had just celebrated Christmas with his family, full of dreams, laughter, and a bright future ahead of him. He was cherished by all who knew him. A loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, godbrother, cousin and friend with an infectious spirit and a wonderful sense of humor. He had a smile that lit up the room. The thought of Malachi no longer with us is an unbearable agony.
The devastation continued beyond Malachi’s life being tragically cut short. My brother, Thomas James (Malachi's father), my niece Christiana (Malachi's sister), and my sweet 3-year-old niece, Vaniya (Christiana’s daughter and Malachi's little niece), were all critically injured in the crash. They are currently in the hospital, fighting for their lives and facing an incredibly long and challenging road to recovery.
• Thomas: My brother is battling severe injuries and undergoing multiple complex surgeries.
• Christiana : has undergone successful surgery for significant leg injuries, requiring rods, but faces a lengthy and painful rehabilitation.
• Vaniya (3 years old): Our brave little soldier is in an entire body cast, enduring immense pain, but showing incredible resilience. Her journey to healing will be extensive.
The Overwhelming Burden: From Grief to Recovery
As we grapple with the unspeakable grief of burying our beloved Malachi, we are also faced with the overwhelming financial and emotional challenges of supporting Thomas, Christiana, and Vaniya through their critical care and arduous recovery. The costs associated with this tragedy are staggering. We are humbly reaching out for your support to help cover:
1. Funeral and Burial Expenses for Malachi: We want to give Malachi the dignified and peaceful farewell he deserves.
2. Medical Bills and Extensive Rehabilitation: The medical expenses for Thomas, Christiana, and Vaniya will be astronomical, covering multiple surgeries, intensive care, ongoing treatments, physical therapy, and potentially specialized equipment for their long-term healing and rehabilitation. Thomas is in surgery as we write this message.
3. Loss of Income: Both Thomas and Christiana will be unable to work for an extended period, placing immense financial strain on a family already reeling from immense loss and pain.
4. Counseling and Trauma Support: The emotional toll on the entire family, will require professional counseling and trauma support to help them cope with this profound loss and traumatic experience.
5. General Living Expenses: While the family dedicates all their energy to healing and recovery, basic living expenses will continue.
How You Can Help Us
Every single donation, no matter the size, will make an immediate and profound difference in our family's ability to navigate this unimaginable time.
• Donate: Please consider contributing what you can. Your generosity will directly alleviate some of the immense financial pressure on Thomas, Christiana, and Vaniya as they focus on healing and recovery.
• Share: Even if you are unable to donate, sharing this GoFundMe link widely on your social media platforms, with friends, family, and community groups, will help us reach those who can offer support.
• Prayers and Positive Thoughts: Your thoughts, prayers, and messages of comfort and strength are deeply cherished and appreciated during these dark days.
We are working closely with law enforcement and implore anyone with information to contact the Hartford Police Department immediately. Justice for Malachi and accountability for his killer are paramount.
Thank you from the bottom of our shattered hearts for your compassion, kindness, and unwavering support during this incredibly difficult journey. Your help will allow us to honor Malachi's memory and give Thomas, Christiana, and Vaniya the best possible chance at healing and rebuilding their lives.
With deepest gratitude,
Joanna James (Sister of Thomas, Aunt of Malachi, Christiana, and Vaniya)
And the entire grieving James Family